Anand Giridharadas: We Aren't Just Dividing As A Society, We Are De-Developing

The Thread of Shared Experiences

In the tapestry of human experiences, there are threads that weave together stories of different places, histories, and situations. These threads are often invisible, yet they connect us in ways that transcend time and space. Two such threads that weave through the fabric of our shared humanity are the tragic stories of Maggie Vespa and Katie Beck, and the GoFundMe campaign topping $3.3 million. These stories, while distinct in their circumstances, share a common thread - the loss of innocence and the struggle for healing.

The Hallmark of Modern Societies: Anonymous Trust

In the grand scheme of societal evolution, one hallmark of modern societies is the concept of anonymous trust. This concept, which allows us to transact with strangers without knowing them personally, is a testament to the progress of our civilization. It is a hallmark that has allowed us to build societies on the notion of trust, even when we don't know the people we're interacting with.

However, it is important to note that this concept of anonymous trust is not without its drawbacks. It has allowed for the rise of a culture of fear and mistrust, where the basic act of knocking on a door or approaching someone's house can lead to violence. This is a stark contrast to the freedom and trust that characterize a functional, free, and modern society.

The Erosion of Trust: A National Brain Damage

The erosion of trust in society is a form of national brain damage. It is a result of the propaganda that has been fed to millions of people, making them feel as if they are in danger. This fear has led to a de-evolution of society, with millions of people feeling as if they are living in a castle, where anyone who crosses their moat is a threat.

This fear is not just a product of random events or coincidences. It is a deliberate strategy by groups like the NRA and Glenn Beck, who have been telling their followers for years that the government is coming to get them. This fear has been a deliberate plan for 25 years, and it has led to a society where everyone is brandishing guns and shooting at everyone else.

The Choice of Fear: A Project of Radicalization

The choice of fear is not an accident. It is a choice that people are making. It is a project of radicalization that has been deliberately cultivated and nurtured. The language we use to describe radicalization around the world applies very much here at home. There has been a funnel of radicalization for many of these people, with the end goal being to sell guns.

This fear is not just a product of random events or coincidences. It is a deliberate strategy by groups like the NRA and Glenn Beck, who have been telling their followers for years that the government is coming to get them. This fear has been a deliberate plan for 25 years, and it has led to a society where everyone is brandishing guns and shooting at everyone else.

The Erosion of Trust: A National Brain Damage

The erosion of trust in society is a form of national brain damage. It is a result of the propaganda that has been fed to millions of people, making them feel as if they are in danger. This fear has